We are getting ready to enter a new year! Before I learned the true meaning of grace, I viewed the new year as a time to start over with trying to live a somewhat perfect life to deserve, earn, and experience God's favor. It is so refreshing to know that I don't have to wait until the new year to start over again. You and I had a new start once we confessed Christ as our Lord and Savior. Through the confession of Christ, He became the sin offering that made us forgiven of all our sins: past, present, and future!
Accept by faith that you are the righteousness of God (Romans 3:21-26 NLT). You don't have to wait until the new year to start over! The bible reads in Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB, "The Lord’s acts of mercy indeed do not end, For His compassions do not fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness." Every day is another opportunity to live for the Lord. Some may ask, what is the purpose of confessing my sins to Christ if they have been forgiven? Confession is an acknowledgment of the ways God has revealed to you that are not aligned with His will. It is very important to understand that confession of the wrong that was done doesn't bring about forgiveness. You were forgiven of all sin the day you accepted Christ. Confession of the sins you commit:
Brings about an awareness of being imperfect and a need for a savior to remain in right standing with God.
Helps you acknowledge the ways that are displeasing to God so that you can be renewed in your mind to no longer walk in a way that is not aligned with His character.
Reminds you to be thankful for the sacrifice of Jesus who took the punishment for sin.
When you confess any sin to God, remember you are forgiven. Praise God for the sacrifice of Jesus who paid the price for mistakes. You will have to accept your forgiveness by faith! You may not feel righteous or worthy of God's mercy. Forgiveness is not based upon feelings but based upon the truth of God's Word! As you confess the truth of being forgiven over your life, feelings of condemnation will begin to subside and align to this gospel of truth.
Knowing and understanding your righteousness is a key to boldly walking in the plans God has ordained for your life. When one doesn't believe God is with them or for them, they will doubt the success they will have in the assignments pursued. Be confident in knowing that whatever God has asked of you to do, you are empowered to do because He is with you and He is for you.
Prayer for the Journey
Father, thank you for Jesus! Because of Jesus, I have a new start of living life on purpose for you! As I go into this new year, help me to remember that the sins I committed are forgiven and washed away by my belief in your death, burial, and resurrection. This year I declare I will fully rely on your grace to empower me to reach every destined place. In Jesus name, Amen!
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